A bipartisan delegation from the US House of Representatives, led by Representative Darrell Issa (California), Vice Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, is currently visiting Egypt for discussions on regional stability, Gaza’s reconstruction, and long-term peace in the Middle East. The delegation includes Representatives Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (Florida), Chuck Edwards (North Carolina), Jim Costa (California), and James Byrd (Indiana).
During their panel discussion with Sada ElBalad English (SEE) and the Middle East News Agency (MENA), the delegation emphasized Egypt’s role as a key strategic partner in the region. They acknowledged Egypt’s leadership in humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza and its potential role in post-war reconstruction.
Egypt’s Role in Gaza’s Reconstruction
Representative Issa highlighted the delegation’s shared perspective despite coming from different political parties and geographical regions across the United States.
"Egypt is our strongest partner in the region and has been tremendously supportive in this time of need. We came to learn how Egypt is formulating a plan for the reconstruction of Gaza, not just rebuilding structures but also reestablishing governance. For too long, a dysfunctional system has been allowed to persist. We heard from leaders that the current division between the Palestinian Authority (PA) and Hamas is no longer acceptable. There must be a unified leadership supported by the people," Issa stated.
The delegation acknowledged the logistical and technical challenges of rebuilding Gaza, a city of over two million people, with a significant portion of the population displaced. Representative Issa stressed that while the US could provide funding and authorization, a detailed plan must come from regional partners, particularly Egypt and Gulf nations.
Humanitarian Aid and the Ceasefire
The delegation praised Egypt’s role in facilitating humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza.
"During these 15 months of war, Egypt has done an amazing job ensuring supplies get in despite the difficulties. Humanitarian aid in wartime is always a challenge. With the ceasefire now in place, we expect to work together—Egypt, the US, Israel, and other stakeholders—to increase aid flow," Issa stated.
He emphasized that increased crossings would be necessary to accelerate aid delivery and prevent further humanitarian crises.
US Support for a Lasting Peace Plan
Addressing concerns about a long-term resolution rather than just a temporary ceasefire, the delegation underscored the need to break the cycle of destruction and rebuilding in Gaza.
"The cycle of build and destroy, build and destroy, has to come to an end. The US Congress does not lead diplomatic efforts—we fact-find, we prepare—but the leadership must come from Egypt, the Palestinian people, Gulf nations, and our State Department. Our role is to authorize and provide funding, but we expect the administration to work with our allies to develop a single, coordinated peace plan," said Issa.
He reaffirmed that the US has historically been the largest aid donor to the Palestinians and would continue to be generous in the rebuilding process, provided there is a clear, well-coordinated plan.
Criticism of UNRWA and Calls for a New Humanitarian Framework
The delegation also addressed concerns about the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), questioning its effectiveness.
"After 25 years of seeing the UN fail in its mission, we must ask: how do we ensure humanitarian aid is delivered without being exploited? UNRWA employed many people but also allowed tunnels to be built right under its headquarters. We need a fresh start, a new organization that ensures aid is delivered without being co-opted by militants," Issa stated.
He noted that while some former UNRWA personnel could be part of a new structure, past failures warranted a complete overhaul.
The Path to a Two-State Solution
The delegation acknowledged the broader implications of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and stressed that any long-term peace solution must integrate both Gaza and the West Bank under a unified leadership.
"Peace is inevitable; it’s just a matter of the timeline. Thirty years ago, in Oslo, both sides agreed on a path, but they have failed to adhere to it. We cannot afford another 25 years of lost progress. A new peace strategy must be developed, one that delivers real hope to Palestinians and long-term security to Israelis," Issa stated.
The delegation underscored Egypt’s historical role as a peace partner since the 1970s, recognizing its efforts to prevent the smuggling of unauthorized materials into Gaza. They also noted positive developments, such as the Palestinian Authority’s recent efforts to reform educational curricula to promote peace.
Regional Stability and US Engagement
Former chairman of the Middle East North Africa Subcommittee, Joe Wilson.
Former Chairman Joe Wilson emphasized the broader regional changes impacting Egypt and the Middle East.
"I just joined today, but I’m grateful for Chairman Issa’s leadership. The shifts in the Middle East will significantly benefit Egypt. I met last night with Syria’s new foreign minister and have long supported efforts to remove the Assad dictatorship. With Iran’s influence diminishing in Syria and increased regional cooperation with Turkey and Saudi Arabia, Egypt stands to gain from enhanced stability and prosperity," Wilson remarked.
The delegation highlighted the importance of ensuring that Palestinian governance reforms extend beyond Gaza.
"We cannot discuss Gaza in a vacuum. The Palestinian Authority needs reforms, and there must be clear leadership for both Gaza and the West Bank. The three-state model—dividing Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel—is not viable. A two-state solution only works if Gaza and the West Bank are connected politically and economically," Issa explained.
Looking Ahead
The delegation affirmed their commitment to working with Egypt and regional allies to ensure a sustainable peace plan.
"We want to fix not just the houses but also the underlying causes of conflict. As President Eisenhower once said, if you have a big problem, you solve it by making it bigger. We must look at the entire problem—lack of economic opportunity, governance issues, and the need for a credible roadmap for peace. Our role is to support this process alongside our allies, and Egypt is a key partner in this effort," Issa concluded.
The delegation is set to continue their discussions in Israel, where they will meet with Israeli officials to further address the complexities of the conflict and the path forward.
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